Microsoft Gives Its OEM And ODM Partners Some Guidelines For 2017

Microsoft has recently unveiled a new set of guidelines for their OEM and ODM partners. The Redmond-based company outlined a few key areas that they think their partners should focus on for the year.

On the hardware front, Microsoft is encouraging developers to move past simple desktops or notebooks and focus on detachable and convertible devices, as well as touch capabilities. The company also pushed for manufacturers to begin integrating Cortana into their devices.

In terms of gaming, Microsoft is encouraging developers to create more gaming-centric PCs and create peripherals that can work with PCs and the Xbox One. The company said its goal is to bring PC and Xbox gaming together through focused marketed and bundles. That being said, we’re unsure how well this goal will work. If someone buys a powerful gaming PC then they may not see the need for an Xbox One.

Microsoft is also pushing for more peripherals such as mice and keyboards, headsets, and wearable tech. As with their hardware, they are once again pushing for greater Cortana integration and promised that such devices would get special branding and marketing benefits.

A focus on Cortana and great integration across the board seems to be Microsoft’s theme for this year. Integrating their various brands could pay off, though, as we stated previously, there is some risk of them competing with themselves. Unsurprisingly, given the poor sales numbers, there was no mention of Windows phones this year. Perhaps it’s a sign that the company is done with the smartphone market.

Eric is an avid tech junkie, gamer, and comic fan. When he's not working on his PC, you'll find him at your local comic book shop.